MADISON, WI- On April 7th, the United States Senate confirmed The Honorable Ketanji Brown Jackson to the US Supreme Court, making her the first Black woman to hold this office. On this decision, Representative Shelia Stubbs (D-Madison) gave the following statement:

“History was made today. Justice Brown Jackson is eminently qualified to be the next Supreme Court Justice and will execute her office faithfully. She is a product of our public schools, a former public defender, a cum laude graduate of Harvard law, a district judge for 8 years, sat on the D.C court of appeals, and has the highest possible rating from the American Bar Association. Judge Brown Jackson has a history of dutiful and diligent practice, and I trust she will be a valued voice on the Supreme Court.

“While it is an honor to witness the ascent of the Supreme Court’s first Black woman justice, I am appalled at the rhetoric surrounding her confirmation. Justice Brown Jackson’s qualifications, credentials, and experience were thrown into question throughout this process. This is a stark reminder that Black women today are still expected to be twice as qualified to be considered suitable for the same positions. The attacks that have been levied against her are an embarrassment, and further prove the need to increase the presence of Black women in positions of power.”

“Representation matters. I know that there are so many Black women and girls that look at the success of Justice Brown Jackson, and realize that they can also make history. As Thurgood Marshall said “none of us got where we are solely by pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps. We got here because somebody – a parent, teacher, an Ivy League crony, or a few nuns – bent down and helped us pick up our boots.” Justice Brown Jackson has now fought to get into a position where she too can help pick up our boots.”

“I am inspired by Justice Brown Jackson’s incredible poise and grace throughout this process and throughout her career. I know she will be a powerful role model to many young women in America. I applaud the Senate for her swift confirmation, and I applaud President Biden for his selection and commitment to expanding diversity in our courts. I look forward to seeing the trailblazing legacy Justice Brown Jackson will build on the highest court in the land.”

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